MANILA, Philippines – Greg Slaughter overtakes Terrence Romeo in this edition of Rappler’s rookie rankings. But other newcomers have also taken the spotlight with steady performances.

1. (Last week: 2) Greg Slaughter, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel

13.6 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 1 APG, 0.2 SPG, 1.8 BPG, 36.03 EFF

Years ago, Blue Eagle Nonoy Baclao would have given University of Visayas’ Greg Slaughter a nightmare in the paint. But that was way back. Slaughter’s now able to utilize his size and blend it with his mobility, finishing with 16 points and 9 boards against the Tropang Texters.

2. (Last week: 1) Terrence Romeo, Globalport Batang Pier

15.8 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 3 APG, 0.3 SPG, 29.33 EFF

Terrence Romeo led the PBA in scoring 3 games into the Philippine Cup. But now, it seems the rookie is facing a slump. He finished with just 4 points against Meralco and a solitary point against Rain or Shine. His shooting in those games? 2-of-20. Romeo must be mindful that scoring isn’t the only way to contribute to his team. He should avoid returning to his old self.

3. (Last week: 5) RR Garcia, Globalport Batang Pier

10.5 PPG, 1.7 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.7 SPG, 23.12 EFF

While Romeo’s struggling, it seems RR Garcia is constantly improving. This week, Globalport fielded the former UAAP MVP for just 19 minutes a game but he was able to score 12 points and do an assortment of things on the floor.

4. (Last week: 3) Ian Sangalang, San Mig Coffee Mixers

11.4 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 28.29 EFF

Ian Sangalang gets a good chunk of the minutes from Coach Tim Cone and he maintains putting up decent numbers each time. He seems to be a great fit for the triangle and so far he’s not disappointing San Mig Coffee.

5. (Last week: n/a) Justin Chua, Globalport Batang Pier

7.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 0.5 APG, 0.3 SPG, 22.75 EFF

Years ago, Chua would just enter the game to provide chief center Greg Slaughter a rest. But now, he’s taking the spotlight too. He’s quickly getting into the mix for Globalport. He’s actually earned the starting spot for two games now and even hit a huge jumper against Rain or Shine which pushed the Batang Pier ahead, 90-87.

The sixth man

(Last Week: 4) Raymond Almazan, Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (▼)

3.8 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 0.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 17.69 EFF

Raymond Almazan’s numbers may have declined but he is doing an array of things which are not necessarily seen on the stat sheets. His presence gives the Elasto Painters more toughness inside and he also gives Extra Rice, Inc. ample amount of rest. – Rappler.com